noun

theodolite

thee-OD-uh-lyte

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Theodolite (noun) means a surveyor's instrument that sights a target through a telescope on a stand and measures its angle up and across. Example: “The surveyor set up the theodolite on a tripod at the edge of the field.”

noun

A surveyor's instrument that sights a target through a telescope on a stand and measures its angle up and across.

"The surveyor set up the theodolite on a tripod at the edge of the field."

"They used a theodolite to measure the angle to the top of the tower."

"Modern theodolites are often used on building sites."

How to use theodolite

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA surveyor's telescope for measuring angles.

When to use it

It is a technical term used mainly in surveying and engineering.

Memory tip

The stress falls on the second syllable, so it is thee-OD-uh-lyte and not THEE-uh-doh-lyte.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

set up a theodolite theodolite reading surveyor's theodolite

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The surveyor set up the _____ on a tripod at the edge of the field.

Etymology

The word comes from New Latin theodolitus, recorded in 1571. It may combine a Greek word for sight or view with an Arabic word for an astrolabe or alidade.

Origin: New Latin

Synonyms

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transit

Related words

van transportation passage transit metro

Rhymes for theodolite

rite bite lite kite cite mite site twite white write trite smite

See all rhymes for theodolite →

Frequently asked questions

What is a theodolite used for?

A theodolite is used in surveying to measure horizontal and vertical angles.

How does a theodolite work?

The surveyor sights a target through its telescope and reads off the angles from the instrument.

How do you pronounce theodolite?

It is said thee-OD-uh-lyte, with the stress on the second syllable.

What is the meaning of theodolite?

"theodolite" (noun) means a surveyor's instrument that sights a target through a telescope on a stand and measures its angle up and across.

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